Russian FM Signals Intent to Capture Ukraine's Second Largest City

Russian FM Signals Intent to Capture Ukraine's Second Largest City
Image copyright: Mert Gokhan Koc/ dia images via Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

If Ukraine got the weapons it needed, it could hold its own and puncture Putin's arrogant view that time is on his side. However, as things stand, the situation is dire and Ukraine is under serious threat. Unless the US is able to approve more weapons soon, there's a realistic chance that the country could lose on the battlefield this year.

Pro-Russia narrative

Russia has remained approving of the prospect of negotiations and it's important to stress that these statements are not just for show. However, if serious negotiations are to take place, it's clear they cannot take place with Ukrainian Pres. Volodymyr Zelenskyy. He lost all trust after he unilaterally withdrew from the last round of talks. Russia needs a reliable negotiating partner to move forward.

Metaculus Prediction


Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO

More neutral establishment stance articles

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